A vague threat from the terrorist organization Al Shabaab against western shopping malls is creating a ripple effect across the globe.

The group called on Muslims to attack large shopping centers, though federal officials said there has been no credible threat. Still, authorities around the world are taking the threats seriously and urged shoppers to be alert and attentive wherever they go.

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Overland Park's Oak Park Mall, one of the busiest in the region, said it has been on heightened alert since the Sept. 11, 2001, terrorist attacks. It said it has hundreds of cameras covering every inch of the property.

Overland Park police said the public shouldn't live in fear, but people can be vigilant, watch their surroundings and report anything suspicious.

"Don't hesitate to call us right away. Get a good description of the person or the activity or whatever it is that you find is out of the ordinary and don't wait. Call us right away," said Officer Jackie Zickel, of the Overland Park Police Department. "A lot of times, people sometimes will go home and they'll think about it and couple of hours later, they'll call. We'd like to know right away. Better safe than sorry."

Shoppers at the mall Monday said they don't feel like they're at high risk, but they try to be on high alert anyway.

"We're always observant. You've got to look behind you and in front of you," said shopper Bev Wolff.

Oak Park Mall officials said the public can see some of its security measures at work, but many other things are going on behind the scenes that they did not want to discuss.